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Selma

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Selma

Selma is a German girl name, which has 5 letters.

Selma is a feminine given name of Germanic origin. It is derived from the elements "sel" meaning "divinely protected" and "ma" meaning "strong." It can also have the meaning of "safe" or "protected."

Detailed Information About The Name Selma

The name "Selma" is of German origin and has various meanings. One interpretation is that it is derived from the Germanic elements "sel" meaning "house" and "helm" meaning "helmet" or "protection." Another possible meaning is that it is a combination of the Old Germanic words "sal" meaning "room" and "maar" meaning "famous." The name has historical significance as well, as it was the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s civil rights movement. Selma, Alabama gained international attention in 1965 during the Selma to Montgomery marches for voting rights. The name has gained popularity over the years due to its historical significance and the inspiring legacy associated with it.

In addition to its historical context, the name Selma has been given to notable individuals in various fields. In literature, Selma Lagerlöf was a Swedish author and the first female Nobel laureate in literature. Her novel "The Wonderful Adventures of Nils" gained international acclaim. In the entertainment industry, Selma Blair is an American actress known for her roles in films such as "Cruel Intentions" and "Legally Blonde," while Selma Hayek is a Mexican-American actress and producer who has achieved success in Hollywood.

The name Selma also has cultural significance in different parts of the world. In Arabic, Selma means "peaceful" or "safe," contributing to its popularity in several Middle Eastern countries. In Turkish, it is a feminine given name meaning "a breeze from the north." This diverse range of meanings adds depth and richness to the name Selma and makes it appealing to individuals from various cultural backgrounds.